Northern Ireland

FA urges victims to report abuse following McClean claims

Republic of Ireland footballer, James McClean said he has received more abuse than any other player during his nine years playing in England.
Republic of Ireland footballer, James McClean said he has received more abuse than any other player during his nine years playing in England. Republic of Ireland footballer, James McClean said he has received more abuse than any other player during his nine years playing in England.

THE Football Association has called on anyone who is subjected to “discriminatory abuse” to report it after Ireland international James McClean criticised some fellow players and authorities for failing to support him following racist and sectarian attacks.

Stoke City winger McClean also criticised the media over what he described as their failure to support him through years of abuse.

The Derry man spoke out after it emerged that Premier League stars Wilfried Zaha and David McGoldrick had been subjected to online abuse. He said he has received more abuse in nine years playing football in England than any other player.

McClean subsequently confirmed that he has not been contacted by any of his Ireland team-mates since making his comments on social media. However, he said he has received a positive reaction.

Northern Ireland international Niall McGinn also joined calls for greater support for footballers dealing with sectarian and racist abuse.

In a statement released yesterday, the FA condemned all forms of discrimination and encouraged all fans and players to report it to the organisation, a club or thought he “kick-it-out” scheme.

A spokesman said: “The FA looks into any discriminatory language or behaviour that’s reported to us and we work closely with the clubs the relevant authorities to ensure appropriate action is taken.”